WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - Palm Beach Atlantic University has been named as a finalist for the 2024 Division II Award of Excellence by the NCAA. The accolade is designed to recognize initiatives in the past year that exemplify the Division II philosophy, community engagement and student-athlete leadership.

The PBA Student Athlete Advisory Committee was recognized for their organizing and running of Spike Night. The beach volleyball tournament open to all in the community was created to raise funds for Make-A-Wish. More than 150 participated in the tournament, which helped Palm Beach Atlantic surpass 60% of its $10,000 goal to raise for Make-A-Wish last academic year. 

The Sailfish were chosen as the finalist from the Sunshine State Conference and are one of 25 finalists. The NCAA Division II office honors its members each year for conducting events that promote student-athletes giving back and serving as leaders within their communities or on their campuses. A committee of athletics administrators determined this year's finalists. Each finalist will receive $500.

National Division II SAAC selected the top three finalists at this past weekend's NCAA Convention in Phoenix.  Roberts Wesleyan was awarded the first-place prize of $2,500 for its Ugandan Water Project initiative. Hawaii Pacific will receive $1,250 as the runner-up for its efforts providing assistance after the devastating wildfires in Lahaina. Virginia-Wise, the second runner-up will receive $1,000 for its Kids Day Basketball Game. All prize money is intended to be used for future SAAC initiatives or community engagement events.

PBA's SAAC is looking forward to hosting its third annual Spike Night at the RAC this spring to continue raising money for its goal of sponsoring a child's wish.